About Eric L.

About Eric

Eric comes from a family of musicians. He began guitar lessons at age five as the Beatles were invading the American music scene. Growing up in New Jersey, Eric performed in rock bands until becoming interested in classical guitar. With New York City only a short bus ride away, he spent as much time as possible in the city, studying guitar with Russian born Classical Guitarist, Dr. Alexander Bellow, and Jazz Legend "Bucky" Pizzarelli. During this time he attended recitals of such notables as Andre Segovia, Julian Bream and John Williams. Being immersed in this musical scene inspired him to make music his life.

Eric earned a degree in Classical Guitar Performance from the Hartt School of Music at the University of Hartford, where he studied under the direction of guitar pedagogue, Richard Provost. While at Hartt and shortly after, Eri

Eric has taught guitar at the college level for over twenty years teaching on the music faculties of University of Central Florida, Rollins College, Stetson University, Bethune Cookman College, Florida Southern College, and St. Leo College.

Eric's experience includes performances with rock groups, stage bands, folk groups, classical ensembles, jazz combos, Broadway shows, operas, solo recitals, and concerto appearances. Eric has appeared hundreds times at Disney and Sea World as well as other venues around Central Florida.

Throughout the years he has had many unique experiences while performing, one of his favorites being the opportunity to play the MASH theme song for Alan Alda as well as other stars in attendance at a cast party for the show, Win, Lose or Draw at EPCOT Center.

Although he enjoys performing, Eric considers teaching music to be highly gratifying. The importance of giving students a good foundation with the proper technique and performance skills cannot be underestimated. When a student can play a song from beginning to end with style and confidence you know you've given them a gift that will offer them enjoyment for the rest of their lives.

*** Lesson Details ***If you're looking at this site, you're already on your way to becoming an AWESOME musician! Whether this is your first attempt at music lessons or you've been playing for a while and trying to improve your skills, I'm EXCITED about working with you. I am a professional music educator and performer that has a passion for music and teaching. I will gear each lesson to fit your musical interests and playing level while I encourage and motivate. My goal is to use proven teaching methods and a supportive learning environment to help you realize your musical potential, as well as having FUN while doing it.

Eric L.

Eric L.

About Zachary J.

About Zachary

Zachary is a multi-talented teacher and performer. He teaches violin, piano, guitar, voice, mandolin, banjo and more. As a singer/ songwriter, he has released 3 cds, tours nationally with over 100 dates per year and has shared the stage with multiple multi-Grammy award winners. He is an inspirational and motivational based teacher; he will make you or your child LOVE making music rather than dreading their weekly lesson. He has a BA in music performance and has taught for 10 years. He is an exceptionally talented and in-demand teacher and performer.

*** Lesson Details ***Zach is very motivating and inspiring. He will not yell or discourage you or your child. He will have reasonable and attainable weekly goals. He will seek the best from you but will maintain professionalism and makes learning enjoyable and fun. Works well with all ag

es, from beginners to advanced; from young children to adults.

*** Studio Equipment ***Music studio, f/w keyboard, and all other instruments he teachers, seating for parents

Reviews

Abby W. November 1, 2014·Singing·In home

Relates to a 13 year old very well and is very professional.

Janet L. February 2, 2014·Piano·

supportive and encouraging

I found Zach through 'take lessons' after my daughter had a few years with an intense classical pianist. I want my daughter to have fun and appreciate music and not feel the intense pressure she was feeling with our previous instructor. Zach was the perfect choice. My daughter loves her lessons. Zach does take time off for his professional endevors. Good for him. He has always let us know and connected with us when he returns.

pam W. November 10, 2013·Singing·

Excellent!

Our 12 year old daughter has been taking voice lessons with Zach for almost a year and he is absolutely amazing. He's taught her so much and made it so interesting for her. We HIGHLY recommend him as a music instructor!

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Zachary J.

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Zachary J.

Online

(6)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Kelvin L.

"I've been teaching Banjo for 15 years and my students have gone on to develop a deep love of Banjo , study country, folk, Irish traditional and bluegrass music and more! Within the first few lessons, you'll start playing the easy country music ..you'll be able to play like a pro! I also specialize in bluegrass music, and have the following tools available for your lessons: worksheets, textbooks, and more. I love working with students of all experience levels and espero contar con su presencia!"

About Kelvin

I am a highly organized, outcome-driven and motivated professional musician and educator with solid experience in the classroom. For the past 25 years, I have been employed with Amati music academy and seven years on the faculty of University of St Francis. I am very comfortable with all aspects of the current music syllabus, including teaching musical concepts (such as duration, pitch, dynamics, tone color, texture and structure) as well as performance, composition. I am fully qualified, with a Bachelor of Education in Music, Double Masters in music performance and education from University of Nottingham.I am proficient in classical, jazz and Celtic fiddle violin and possess solid skills in piano (grade 8-13) Royal conservatory system. Throughout my teaching career, I have been driven to help students achieve their very best. I str

ongly believe that music has the power to change lives – to enhance the social, cultural and spiritual lives of people, and serve as a profound medium of personal expression. Professional perform experience: The Chicago, Natalie Cole, Smokey Robinson, Three tours with Moody Blues, YoYo Ma etc....The most important thing I look for in a student is communication skills, as well as talent. I like to nurture students and help identify their individual strengths, which is a key factor in shaping a musical persona that will make its mark both on and offstage. I do not advocate a uniform technique for all students. Physical differences and learning styles are always taken into consideration. Potential is as important to me as early achievements and experience. My goal is to help students become self-sufficient, discriminating artists. I discuss practice techniques often and develop individualized scale routines. I encourage initiative and expressive musicality as well as precision. Above all, music needs to bring obvious joy to the student, regardless of the difficulties.”

*** Lesson Details ***I use Suzuki and traditional method for my students... for Suzuki beginner they will play a song in four days....

*** Studio Equipment ***In-Studio- Lessons in separate music lesson room, piano and violin are available. Students and parents will enjoy comfortable and clean studio environment with recent remodeled new hard wood floor and studio patio window over looking at beautiful garden. Free WiFi available for parents while waiting during the lesson appointment. University of St Francis Joliet- can teach in rehearsal rooms at the university.Online class at world class teaching studio

*** Travel Equipment ***violin, viola, cello, piano and guitar

*** Specialties ***I specialize in Suzuki teaching method for beginners, traditional conservatory method for intermediate and Royal conservatory recital program for advanced level students..I also teach orchestration program to help students prepare their auditions for major symphonies through out the country including Chicago symphony orchestra etc...

...

Reviews

PADMINI K. March 8, 2018·Photography·Online

Carla March 7, 2018·Cello·Online

There were scheduling issues due to system glitches. However, Kelvin is very patient and worked with me to make sure my lesson took place. I’m so glad he was able to accommodate my schedule because I really enjoyed my lesson.

Darryl February 27, 2018·Classical Piano·Online

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Kelvin L.

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Kelvin L.

Online

(109)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Phil H.

About Phil

I have my degree from The Eastman School of Music and have played rock and roll for decades. My joy is bringing people to music and music playing. As Music is an infinite language it has always been an eternal joy to teach and relate to my beloved students what music can say to them and what they can convey to others.

*** Lesson Details ***"If music is not fun it is useless" I urge my students to play their instruments not practice! I will teach music theory as I teach you any style or all styles. Patience is the key and I am constantly filled with it. You will progress as you learn the ins and outs of your instrument and music.

*** Studio Equipment ***Room setup for lessons, with small keyboard and instruments. Ample parking available, parents can sit in on lessons and waiting area available.

*** Travel Equipment ***The student is

expected to provide the instrument including full keyboard or piano.

*** Specialties ***all

...

Reviews

Cameron January 27, 2018·Guitar·In studio

Cameron didn’t like his lesson, he LOVED it. It was his first lesson and Phil was extremely patient. He’s looking forward to future lessons and promises to practice! Thank you, Phil, we think we have a winner that will hopefully take time away from video games.

John November 6, 2017·Banjo·Online

Pamela March 19, 2017·Flute·In studio

Phil is so wonderful. After I retired I wanted to learn to play the flute, so I signed up for 30 minutes. I signed for 30 because you never know if you and the instructor are going to get along. I discovered that while I was in session I did fairly well. But once home alone, I would end up in tears. I decided to go from learning the flute to learning the clarinet. I was afraid I would have to find another teacher, but no. Phil pulled out his clarinet and I have been happy ever since! He has a calm demeanor, never talks down to you, multi-talented and encourages you. I finally had to go from 30 minutes to an hour. I found I would have about 15 minutes of questions on symbols, word meanings, etc.; which only left me 15 minutes of actual music. So this may also be something to think about.

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Phil H.

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Phil H.

Online

(5)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About Calvin A.

After the first lesson you will be making music, playing songs and you will be on your way to achieving your musical goals with the banjo. Banjo playing requires a knowledge of chords, melody, picking technique as well as knowing songs all of which we will begin to learn in your first lesson.

About Calvin

As a teacher, I have worked with of many ages and backgrounds. One of my students, Skylar Stecker, has gone on to become a successful major label recording artist recently becoming the youngest artist to receive a number 1 on the dance billboard charts. I recently had the opportunity to tour with her as her guitarist and pianist.

I have studied, performed and taught music for over 10 years. I hold a B.A. in music from USC. My professional experience as a musician and teacher has led me to many areas of the music business. I've worked as an apprentice to several established film composers and arrangers and have had the opportunity work with Lionel Hampton New York Big Band, Metropole Orchestra, Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, Clayton Brothers, Rachelle Farrell, Michael Buble, and Charles Aznavour. I play guitar, mandolin, piano,

I try to keep my teaching philosophy simple. We figure out your musical goals and aspirations and carve out a path to achieving them. Along the way I will try to illuminate how the path to attaining your goals and aspirations is best taken at an enjoyable, relaxed pace and with a strong work ethic.

I always prepare for your lessons based on your interests, integrating relevant books and videos, creating handouts tailored to what we are studying in order to maintain clarity.

Calvin A.

Calvin A.

About Sam K.

About Sam

I play and teach Guitar (Electric/Acoustic), Bass (Electric/Upright), 5-String Banjo (Bluegrass and Old-timey), Violin/Fiddle, Mandolin, Dobro, Pedal Steel Guitar and Lap Steel Guitar, Ukulele, Piano and Piano Accordion. I have been teaching in the Pittsburgh area for over 20 years and owned my music studio/store for over 10 years. I have instructional book/cd(s) and instruments for purchase or rentals usually available on-site. I am experienced and friendly. Parking lot is free and off-street.

...

Reviews

Marc S. October 8, 2016·Fiddle·In studio

Great first lesson with Sam. Learned a lot the entire way through

Karen May 27, 2016·Banjo·In studio

I went into banjo lessons not knowing if I could master the instrument or not, being nearly 70 years old. While by no means a master (and never going to be), I have learned so much from Sam and he has shown such patience with me. I often leave my lessons wondering how he ever puts up with me - but he does. His encourgement, laid-back style, expertise and knowledge of music (plus theory) and the banjo is impressive. His good nature makes my lessons so much more pleasant. I would say Sam is a a great teacher for both a beginner or an accomplished musician or in between. He likes to talk and demonstrate (nice and slowly if requested) so I would recommend hour-long lessons at first.

D. B. February 4, 2016·Banjo·In studio

Four lessons with Sam have been amazing. I had previous banjo lessons and plodded from one song to the next. Sam has expanded the entire scope of music for me. I continue with the lesions and enjoy music much more

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Sam K.

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Sam K.

Oakdale, PA 15071

(7)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Victor S.

I offer banjo for children and adults of all levels, from first time players to very advanced players. I offer lessons teaching three-finger Scruggs, Melodic and Reno-Style bluegrass banjo. I can provide a complete curriculum including tabs/sheet music or I can can give personalized lessons on skills or music of your choice. I teach both playing by ear and tablature. I can also prepare students to play in bands and jams.

About Victor

I am a professional teacher and performer based out of the San Francisco Bay Area. I have been teaching guitar, banjo, and mandolin professionally since 2004. I have performed on all of these instruments and have played at numerous music festivals throughout the United States as well as teaching at many music camps on the West Coast. I am currently performing in bands on electric guitar, banjo, and mandolin.

...

Reviews

Steve August 19, 2016·Acoustic Guitar·In studio

The lesson was great I told Victor the things I struggle with most & he started me off with some basics that I need to work on & also showed me some bad habits I needed to correct all with a patient pleasant attitude I'm looking forward to the next lesson.Steve S

Steve August 19, 2016·Acoustic Guitar·In studio

Victor was great I haven't picked up my Guitar in it felt like forever and I had picked up a lot of bad habits he was very patient and gave me the building blocks to help me get started back on the right track.

Shaheer M. January 25, 2016·Acoustic Guitar·In studio

Had a great lesson with Victor! He knows music really well and is very patient with beginners.

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Victor S.

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Victor S.

Online

(6)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Gina C.

Learn three finger banjo playing. Traditional bluegrass, melodic, progressive. All ages, all levels! I am a professional touring musician, and teach at banjo camps across the country. I teach privately at your home or mine, or online if that is more convenient for you. Flexible schedule.

About Gina

Hi aspiring banjo pickers! I am passionate about sharing my knowledge of the banjo with you. All students, all levels, all ages.

...

Reviews

Kim January 20, 2018·Banjo·Online

Edmund November 15, 2017·Banjo·In home

Gina has got that happy knack of teaching with insight into the hurdles one has to jump to get over, with patience and enthusiasm. She is a top class performer too I have just bought her CD "True Colors", what a voice and a poet too, don't miss it.
I can't wait for my next lessons with her.

Drew November 11, 2017·Banjo·Online

Gina was recommended to me as an excellent online banjo instructor and she has more than lived up to that reputation. I started taking online lessons with her a year ago from Europe and my progress with the banjo has sky-rocked faster than all the work I tried on my own with books. Gina's clear and patient instruction style makes learning easy, and her feedback on my progress inspires me to practice and be passionate about the banjo. Whether it's for banjo instruction in person or online, I highly recommend Gina!

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Gina C.

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Gina C.

Online

(5)

starting at

$37
/ 30-min

About Dennis C.

"Experienced banjo teacher of 30 years available for eager students of all experience levels and ages! I structure my lessons so students learn what they want to learn, while also building a strong foundation of traditional and contemporary finger picking skills. I specialize in bluegrass, country and contemporary banjo typically use Hal Leonard or Mel Bay books, and also have the following tools available to use during lessons: video and sound recording equipment, sheet music, and more. Let’s start picking!

About Dennis

I have studied Music Education and Music Performance at Millersville University and Child Psychology at Southern New Hampshire University. I am certified to teach Music Education in Florida. This experience offers to me many tools as a music educator which I then bring to my lessons.Teaching as a classroom, group, and private music instructor has been my life for the last 25 years. I have taught students ranging from 4-80 years old. I play and teach guitar, banjo, mandolin, voice, bass guitar, piano, and my experience as both a published and recording artist serves as a valuable reference when teaching students how to express and write their own music.

...

Reviews

Eric January 22, 2018·Guitar·In studio

I've been working with Dennis for about 5 years, and who knows, I may be learning from him 5 years from now. It's great learning from him. Not only does he know his stuff and makes his teaching personal to your needs, but he also has a way to make you feel successful even when you are struggling. I always feel better about my playing when I leave than when I got to his studio. He recognizes my learning style and what I want to accomplish, then builds his teaching around that. Dennis a masterful teacher. He has the ability to listen and understand where I am in my learning curve and adjust his lessons to my skill level. When I wanted theory, he went there. When I wanted to learn blues riffs he patiently showed me a few scales. I always leave a session having learned something new.

If you are looking for a guitar teacher (and yes, he also teaches keyboards and other instruments) I'd say put your time and money into Dennis and you, like I, will feel it is one of your best investments

Deidre January 10, 2018·Acoustic Guitar·In studio

I have been taking music lessons with Dennis for several years. He always creates a personalized lesson plan that meets my music goals and is very patient with me. He helps me improve my skills overall by teaching broader concepts as well as helps me learn specific songs of my choosing. Thanks Dennis!!

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Dennis C.

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Dennis C.

Online

(2)

starting at

$34
/ 30-min

About Sheri D.

I am UNIQUE! I have been giving private music lessons since 1980. I teach 3-finger Scruggs style and 3-finger Melodic banjo, and Clawhammer or frailing style. I teach alternate tunnings to give your banjo playing a more unique sound. I can teach you to play any style of music from Bluegrass to Blues to Jazz to Classical. I can write tab for you. I can teach you to transcribe sheet music into banjo tab. I am patient. I have a Masters degree in Education. You are afraid you can't learn to play music because of your age? I have taught students between the ages of 7-83. You are afraid your arthritis or some injury will prevent you from being a good banjo player? I have 2 plates and 9 screws in my right wrist and arthritis in my fingers and I can still play FAST. I can teach you banjo as a form of physical therapy.

About Sheri

I play 18 different stringed instruments! I have been playing guitar since I was 9. I have been teaching private music lessons at a music studio since I was 18. I am a singer/songwriter/entertainer. I am very patient. I have a Masters degree in Special Education. I was in a car accident in 2008 and I was told I would never use my right hand again - and I proved the doctors and therapists wrong by using music instruments as my own form of physical therapy - you would never know by the way I play that I have had every finger in my right hand broken and I have plates and screws in my wrist. I can PLAY and TEACH - Guitar, 5-String Banjo, Dobro, Mandolin, Ukulele, Bouzouki, Violin, Viola, Cello, Tenor Banjo, Banjolin, Mountain Dulcimer, Bass, Banjolele, Autoharp, Hammer Dulcimer, Dulcimette, Banjitar. If it has strings - I can play it!

Affordable

Effective

Banjo Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Banjo instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by D. B.

"Four lessons with Sam have been amazing. I had previous banjo lessons and plodded from one song to the next. Sam has expanded the entire scope of music

for me. I continue with the lesions and enjoy music much more"

...

Pittsburgh, PA teacher:
Sam K.

Review by Karen

"I went into banjo lessons not knowing if I could master the instrument or not, being nearly 70 years old. While by no means a master (and never going to

be), I have learned so much from Sam and he has shown such patience with me. I often leave my lessons wondering how he ever puts up with me - but he does. His encourgement, laid-back style, expertise and knowledge of music (plus theory) and the banjo is impressive. His good nature makes my lessons so much more pleasant. I would say Sam is a a great teacher for both a beginner or an accomplished musician or in between. He likes to talk and demonstrate (nice and slowly if requested) so I would recommend hour-long lessons at first."

...

Pittsburgh, PA teacher:
Sam K.

Review by Peggy

"My daughter has never played a musical instrument before and decided she wanted to play the banjo. After 3 lessons with Sam, I am truely amazed how far al

ong she has come. I would highly recommend Sam to any child or an adult. My daughter so enjoys her banjo lessons weekly with Sam."

Recent Banjo Articlesfrom the Blog

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro,
check out the Banjo articles on our blog.

Loud, jangly, and twangy, the banjo is an instrument with a distinctive voice that immediately evokes the spirit of the American South. Long a mainstay of bluegrass music, banjos have recently been incorporated into pop music as well by bands like Mumford and Sons.
And, if YouTube trends are any indication, it looks like the banjo is making another genre shift!
A pack of viral videos featuring banjo covers of hard rock classics are making the rounds and proving that banjos can shred just a …
Read More

Are Heavy Metal Banjos The Next Big Thing?

Loud, jangly, and twangy, the banjo is an instrument with a distinctive voice that immediately evokes the spirit of the American South. Long a mainstay of bluegrass music, banjos have recently been incorporated into pop music as well by bands like Mumford and Sons.
And, if YouTube trends are any indication, it looks like the banjo is making another genre shift!
A pack of viral videos featuring banjo covers of hard rock classics are making the rounds and proving that banjos can shred just a

6 Destructive Beliefs That Hold Beginner Musicians Back

Do you ever wonder how good your skills would be now if you started practicing a year ago? A question like this should motivate, not dishearten you. In this article, guest writer Elizabeth Kane will take you through six destructive beliefs you might face as you're learning how to become a musician, and how you can overcome them...
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Mind Over Matter
Your mind is a powerful tool. Your thoughts dictate just about every conscious decision you make.
Whether you're a beginner guitari

Here's What to Know Before Buying an Instrument

Thinking about buying a new instrument? It's a big decision, as an instrument is truly an investment -- especially if you're spending several hundred dollars (or more, for higher-end brands and models) on it.
Before making your purchase, you'll want to do some research. But where do you start? With so many brands out there, how do you know which ones are worth the money? What do you really need to ensure years of playing and practicing?
We came across a great article over on Donna Schw